West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday denounced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, labeling it “anti-secular” and claiming it threatens the rights of Muslims. Speaking in the state assembly, Banerjee criticized the Centre for not consulting states and accused it of targeting a specific community.
“The bill is anti-federal and anti-secular. It is a deliberate attempt to malign a particular section and will snatch the rights of Muslims,” Banerjee stated. She emphasized that Waqf properties benefit not only Muslims but also Hindus who contribute for developmental purposes.
The chief minister expressed her commitment to defending all religions, stating, “If any religion is attacked, I will wholeheartedly condemn it.” She also noted her party’s opposition to the bill in Parliament and accused the Centre of bypassing dialogue with states on the issue.
Opposition parties have sharply criticized the bill, arguing that its proposed amendments to the Waqf Act violate the religious rights of Muslims. However, the ruling BJP has defended the amendments, asserting that they aim to enhance transparency and accountability in Waqf board operations.
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju introduced the bill in the Lok Sabha on August 8, drawing mixed reactions. While some NDA allies, including JD(U) and TDP, supported the proposal to send the bill to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for review, opposition parties have called for further scrutiny.
A 31-member JPC, comprising representatives from both Houses of Parliament, is currently examining the contentious bill. The government insists the amendments will bring structural improvements, but critics fear they could undermine the autonomy of Waqf boards and disproportionately affect Muslims.
The bill has sparked a national debate on federalism, religious rights, and governance, with both sides preparing for a prolonged political battle.
